B3 Designers unveils Mediterranean bistro in London’s Marylebone

Photography: Beth Evans

Short for ‘abuelita’, (meaning ‘grandmother’ in Spanish) Lita is one of the latest additions to Marylebone’s culinary scene from Canadian-born restaurateur Daniel Koukarskikh. Conceptualised by chef Luke Ahearne (formerly the Head Chef at Corrigan’s Mayfair), the restaurant was then brought to life by Clerkenwell-based studio B3 Designers, who aimed to channel the welcoming ambience of a rural French chateau. “The restaurant is laid out to feel open, welcoming, and homely,” explains lead designer Laura Caner. “With a warm, earthy colour palette and abundance of natural light, Lita presents timeless interiors.”

Nodding once again to the chateau aesthetic, throughout the restaurant ceiling is crossed by exposed timber beams, while diners can enjoy their meal from the comfort of restored antique tables and chairs by mid-20^th century design duo, Guillerme et Chambron. Wall finishes are distressed and textured for a more informal, lived-in feel, while the flooring is comprised of reclaimed Italian terracotta tiles laid in a neat herringbone pattern. Plush banquettes and booth seating in blood orange mohair is lit by fabric-shaded pendant lights for an intimate, ambient atmosphere throughout.

Guests can choose to share a meal in this main dining area, at the rear of which is the Ahearne’s roaring open-fire grill, or one of the three open counters where his talented team of chefs (who have been closely involved with the design process) meticulously prepare and plate each meal. These counters –timber-clad with a mid-tone reddish sapele wood and topped with red travertine stone – are joined by restored antique bar stools in a deep green velvet, with the bar equipment itself is concealed behind bespoke cupboards to continue a more homelike feel.

A private eight-cover dining room is also available to book, concealed when in use by thick curtains and furnished with a feature chandelier, floral wallpaper and vibrant contemporary artwork selected by the owner. Also central to the guest experience is Lita’s walk-in wine cellar, where an in-house sommelier awaits to select the perfect Mediterranean wine from bespoke wooden shelving.

“The aim of Lita was to create the ultimate neighbourhood bistro with a dynamic menu, excellent wine list and relaxed atmosphere,” says restauranteur Koukarskikh. “We’ve worked to create something unique to the area that offers an exemplary, modern-day dining experience in a laid-back, inviting setting.”